Institute for Legislative Analysis

Margaret Hassan

This motion to "Waive All Applicable Budgetary Discipline" allows the "Social Security Fairness Act of 2023" to bypass Senate rules including the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO), which enforce spending limits and deficit control. The Social Security Fairness Act eliminates two federal cost-control policies that barred employees with a public pension from then also collecting the full-level of benefits under the federal retirement program. The bill is estimated to increase taxpayer spending by $195.65 billion and shorten the window for insolvency of the Social Security Trust Fund by 6 months - triggering a 23 percent cut for all seniors in 2033. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill largely serves as a political ploy to gain favorability from federal workers and labor unions while worsening the unfunded liability crisis of Social Security. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Bypassing Senate Fiscal Restraints to Advance the "Social Security Fairness Act" which Quickens the Insolvency of Social Security.

The "Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024" sponsored by Sen. Thomas Carper would direct the Army Corps of Engineers to carry out 17 new water infrastructure projects and study dozens of other potential ones. Some of the authorized ventures include a $2.7 billion storm risk reduction effort in Miami, a $26.7 million stormwater management initiative outside Memphis, Tennessee, and $2.1 billion toward restoration of the Everglades. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as these projects do not pertain to national security or any other national need. The costs of these projects - which provide benefits to only select states or regions - should not be socialized onto federal taxpayers. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control federal spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Socializing the Costs of Regional Projects onto Federal Taxpayers through the "Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act".

This resolution introduced by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) would prohibit the sale of certain offensive American weaponry to Israel. The measure bans the sale of "M933A1 120mm High Explosive mortar cartridges with M783 fuzes" while two other similar resolutions also introduced by Sanders ban the sale of "120mm tank rounds" and "Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs)". The United States has been providing Israel these weapons after the nation was attacked by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023. According to the sponsor, "Israel's strategy of deadly attacks on and near civilian populations must end" citing the 43,000 Palestinians that have died from the conflict in Gaza. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill weakens national security. Israel is the United States' strongest ally in the Middle East and a critical partner in combatting adversaries such as Iran.

Weakening National Security by Halting the Sale of Certain U.S. Weapons to Israel as they Combat Terrorist Groups in Iran and the Gaza Strip.

The "Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025" sponsored by Tom Cole (R-OK) helps avert a shutdown by extending government funding through December 20, 2024. The bill extends disaster relief and contains $230 million in additional funding for Secret Service in response to the two assassination attempts against President Trump. However, the bill does not include a GOP-backed provision requiring proof-of-citizenship when registering to vote. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill fails to include a critical provision needed to strengthen the integrity of elections and merely further "kicks the can down the road" on fiscal responsibility. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Extending Government Funding without a Critical Provision to Strengthen Election Integrity or Other Fiscal Restraints through the "Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025".

This resolution sponsored by Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) would enact a "Six Penny Plan" federal budget. The plan would balance on-budget outlays and revenues within five years by cutting six pennies off every dollar projected to be spent in the next five fiscal years. According to the sponsor, the plan would reduce spending by $329 billion in the first year, and accomplishes the balanced budget even with the provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act being made permanent. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure represents an excellent pathway to restoring fiscal order to Congress. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Restoring Fiscal Sanity through a "Six Penny Plan" Federal Budget that Makes Significant Cuts in Spending and Balances the Budget within Five Years.

The final version of the "American Relief Act, 2025" passed on December 20, 2024 and sponsored by Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) would fund the government through March 14, 2025. The bill also includes more than $100 billion in disaster aid and $10 billion in economic aid to farmers, as well as an extension of the farm bill through Sept. 30, 2025. This version of the bill does not include a two-year suspension of the debt limit as had been advocated by President-elect Trump. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country. Note: Democratic Lawmakers who opposed the bill because they wanted greater levels of spending were also recorded as opposing the limited government position.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through a Government Funding Package Containing Over $100 Billion in Disaster Aid and Farm Subsidies with No Fiscal Offsets.

The "Social Security Fairness Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Garret Graves (R-LA) eliminates two federal cost-control policies that barred employees with a public pension from then also collecting the full-level of benefits under the federal retirement program. The bill is estimated to increase taxpayer spending by $195.65 billion and shorten the window for insolvency of the Social Security Trust Fund by 6 months - triggering a 23 percent cut for all seniors in 2033. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill largely serves as a political ploy to gain favorability from federal workers and labor unions while worsening the unfunded liability crisis of Social Security. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Quickening the Insolvency of Social Security to Gain Political Favorability from Federal Workers and Labor Unions through the "Social Security Fairness Act".

The Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID) amendment #3331 to the "Social Security Fairness Act of 2023" would delay the implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act until changes are made that would offset the bill's negative effects on Social Security's actuarial balance as determined by the Social Security board of trustees. The underlying bill eliminates two federal cost-control policies that barred employees with a public pension from then also collecting the full-level of benefits under the federal retirement program. The bill is estimated to increase taxpayer spending by $195.65 billion and shorten the window for insolvency of the Social Security Trust Fund by 6 months - triggering a 23 percent cut for all seniors in 2033. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure serves as a step in the right direction to prevent the further worsening of the unfunded liability crisis surrounding Social Security. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Promoting Fiscal Responsibility by Delaying Implementation of the "Social Security Fairness Act" Until Changes Are Enacted to Offset the Bill's Negative Effects on the Actuarial Balance.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #3352 to the "Social Security Fairness Act of 2023" would enact the "Government Shutdown Prevention Act" which would keep government open but institutes a six percent cut to then-current funding levels for any agency, program and activity that Congress failed to fund. Funding would continue to be reduced by another one percent every 90 days thereafter that an agreement is still not enacted. Support is the Limited Government Position as this fiscally responsible measure helps provide lawmakers an alternative to either enacting a wasteful, bloated budget or a government shutdown. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Increasing Fiscal Responsibility through the "Government Shutdown Prevention Act" which keeps Government Operating Albeit a Six Percent Cut to All Unfunded Programs.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #3346 to the "Social Security Fairness Act of 2023" would gradually raise the retirement age to reflect current life expectancies, by three months per year until the retirement age reaches 70, and would save the program nearly $400 billion. The amendment will help pay for the cost of the Social Security Fairness Act, which will total $200 billion over 10 years. Support is the Limited Government Position as this fiscally responsible measure helps lengthen the solvency of the Social Security Trust Fund by another year. The program will enter insolvency in 2033 - triggering a 23 percent cut for all seniors.

Improving the Solvency of Social Security by Gradually Raising the Retirement Age to 70 to Offset the Costs of the "Government Shutdown Prevention Act".

The "National Defense Authorization Act" (NDAA) as passed on December 11, 2024, spans 1,800 pages and includes key provisions which ban transgender medical treatments for minors and limit diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs in the military. Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to promote DEI or provide elective services surrounding gender reassignment, as is the current case with Botox and other procedures designed to improve physical appearance. All such services and costs should be the responsibility of the individuals seeking to obtain them, not U.S. taxpayers. Note: this custom vote only records Democrat positions on the bill on the grounds of DEI and transgender issues. Another custom vote records Republican positions on the basis of spending.

Passing a National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which Bans DEI and Gender Reassignment Surgeries in the Military.

This resolution introduced by Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) would prohibit the Biden Administration from cancelling $4.65 billion of debt owed by Ukraine to U.S. taxpayers. According to the sponsor "The Biden Administration's proposal shifts the burden of funding Ukraine's small businesses, farmers, and corrupt bureaucrats onto the backs of hardworking Americans, who are already suffering during a time of high inflation." Support is the Limited Government Position as Americans cannot afford to continue to pour hundreds of billions into Ukraine - especially without proper safeguards to prevent corruption and waste. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Protecting U.S. Taxpayers by Blocking the Biden Administration from Forgiving $4.65 in Ukraine Debt.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #3289 to the "Veterans Benefits Continuity and Accountability Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024" would rescind $2.9 billion in Department of Energy loan guarantees to pay for the provisions in the underlying bill. The bill is in response to the PACT Act (also known as the "burn pit bill") that was passed in 2022 and drastically expanded veteran healthcare coverages - which has now created a $3 billion budget shortfall. According to the sponsor, "Which is more important, subsidizing millionaire owners of green energy or paying for veterans' benefits? Why not take one to pay for the other?" Support is the Limited Government Position as the Institute for Legislative Analysis' had correctly noted two years prior that the PACT Act would "create countless avenues for devious plaintiffs' attorneys to advance fraudulent health and disability claims and will likely further overload the VA". This amendment serves as a step in the right direction in covering the cost of the disastrous PACT Act which is expected to cost taxpayers over $700 billion.

Protecting Taxpayers by Reappropriating Wasteful Funding in the DOE to Pay for the Runaway Costs from the Disastrous PACT Act.

The "Right to IVF Act" sponsored by Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) is a package of previously introduced measures and most notably would establish a new "right" to access fertility treatments (e.g., in vitro fertilization). The bill includes a nationwide right for patients to access IVF and other ART services and a right for doctors to provide IVF treatment in accordance with medical standards. The bill also contains provisions which require all employer-sponsored insurance plans and other public insurance plans to cover fertility treatments, plus provides a new cause of action for individuals and healthcare providers. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while all individuals should have the freedom to choose IVF, the bill contains additional provisions which expand government overreach and unnecessarily hike healthcare and insurance costs. Furthermore, the bill advances frivolous litigation through the establishment of a new cause of action.

Providing a New "Right to IVF" which Includes Insurance Mandates and New Abilities to Bring Frivolous Lawsuits.

The "Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO) would expand numerous tax credit programs that benefit select businesses and certain individuals with low-incomes. For example, the bill expands the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program and increases welfare payments for low-income families under the child tax credit program from $1,600 to $2,000 per child, including allowing a greater number of illegal immigrants to receive benefits. Additionally, the bill provides businesses with research and development expenses with more favorable tax deductions, while also extending certain provisions under the Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017, including the bonus depreciation provision. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill grows the welfare state and government dependency - including for illegal immigrants - while continuing to distort the tax code to provide benefits to select businesses and taxpayers. Instead of this cronyism, lawmakers should provide broad tax relief by lowering the tax brackets or most preferably, transition to a flat tax.

Growing the Welfare State and Tax Cronyism through the "Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act".

This motion blocks a resolution sponsored by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) which would prevent the Biden administration from utilizing U.S. military servicemembers to operate a pier on the coast of the Gaza Strip. The $230 million military-run project known as the Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore system, or JLOTS, consisted of a floating pier that would only operate for about 20 days and undercut certain actions taken by Israel. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the Gaza pier boondoggle represented a failed political stunt and unnecessarily cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars. Furthermore, it created unnecessary tensions between the U.S. and Israel and placed American service members in harms way.

Placing American Service Members at Risk of Harm and Creating Unnecessary U.S. Tensions with Israel by Authorizing the Biden Admin's Boondoggle Floating Pier Project in Gaza.

The "Right to Contraception Act" sponsored by Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA) would create a new statutory right to obtain and use contraceptives and gives health care providers a right to provide contraceptives and share information about them. The bill also creates a new cause of action allowing anyone to bring a lawsuit if they believe their right to contraception has been infringed. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while every person should have the freedom to utilize contraception, this bill creates a new avenue for individuals to abuse the legal system and bring frivolous litigation against businesses, religious organizations and other individuals.

Advancing Frivolous Litigation by Establishing a New Cause of Action under the "Right to Contraception Act".

This resolution introduced by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a Biden administration rule issued by the Department of Energy on December 18, 2023, titled "Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Consumer Furnaces". The rule requires gas furnaces to achieve an efficiency standard of 95 percent when right now, residential gas furnaces only require an efficiency standard of 80 percent. According to the sponsor, "this rule would remove up to 60 percent of current residential furnaces from the market and would impact 55 percent of American households". Support is the Limited Government Position as consumers within a free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - should have the freedom to choose the type of furnace that best meets their needs. This measure serves as a step in the right direction to combatting government overreach which unnecessarily hikes consumer costs.

Utilizing the Congressional Review Act to Overturn a Draconian Biden Administration DOE Rule Imposing Energy Efficiency Mandates on Furnaces.

This resolution introduced by Rep. Mike Flood (R-NE) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a Biden administration rule issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2022, titled "Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 121". This rule requires financial institutions and firms that are safeguarding their customers' digital assets (such as crypto-currency) to hold the assets on their balance sheet. The rule has received criticism due to the fact the regulations makes it cost prohibitive for banks and other financial institutions to serve as custodians for digital assets. Support is the Limited Government Position as the Biden administration rule has largely roadblocked the ability of banks to hold digital assets, thus harming growth and innovation in the crypto-currency industry. This measure provides critical regulatory relief.

Overturning a Biden Administration Rule Making it Cost Prohibitive for Banks to Hold Crypto-Currencies for their Customers.

This resolution introduced by Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a Biden administration rule issued by the Department of Treasury on November 20, 2023, titled "Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds". The rule changed the definition of "obligation" as it relates to State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds and extended the timeline for spending the COVID-19 relief money from 2024 to 2026. According to the sponsor, the rule violates the expiration dates laid out in the American Rescue Plan and treats taxpayer money "as a slush fund for pet projects by Biden's Treasury" and will "cost American families an extra $1,200 per year". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps prevent the waste of an enormous amount of taxpayer funds. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Overturning a Biden Administration Rule which Allows the Waste and Misuse of $13 Billion in Taxpayer Funds through the Extension of the Expiration of Covid-19 Relief Funds.

The "FY2024 supplemental appropriations" sponsored by Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) is a package of four bills approved in the U.S. House of Representatives and amounts to $95 billion in foreign aid. This includes $61 billion in aid to Ukraine, $26 billion for the Israel-Hamas conflict ($15 billion for Israel, $9 billion for Gaza, $2.4 billion for regional U.S. operations) and $8 billion for Taiwan and countries in the Indo-Pacific region. The bill also contains a provision banning the social media platform TikTok, which is a subsidiary of Chinese-owned company ByteDance Ltd. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as Americans cannot afford to continue to pour hundreds of billions into Ukraine - especially without proper safeguards to prevent corruption and waste. Additionally, while a TikTok ban across government platforms is reasonable considering national security, it ultimately should be up to individual Americans to weigh the risks of TikTok and determine their usage - not politicians - absent a much more substantial threat to national security.

Placing America Last by Providing $95 Billion in Foreign Aid to Ukraine and Other Nations and Imposing an Overreaching Ban on the Social Media Platform TikTok.

The "Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act" sponsored by Rep. Laurel Lee (R-FL) would reauthorize Title VII of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) for five years, including the reauthorization of Section 702 for two years - which allows the government to spy on noncitizens located abroad without a warrant. While Section 702 prohibits the NSA and FBI from "intentionally" targeting Americans through its mass surveillance, these agencies acquire a huge amount of innocent Americans' communications "incidentally." These agencies can then conduct backdoor, warrantless searches of these "incidentally collected" communications. According to a 2021 FBI report, the agency conducted 3.4 million warrantless searches on Americans through Section 702. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the reauthorization of Section 702 of FISA - including with the in-name-only "reforms" - violates the protections provided to Americans against unreasonable searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Weakening Civil Liberties by Reauthorizing FISA with Section 702 - Which has Allowed the Warrantless Surveillance of the Trump Campaign and Millions of Other Americans.

The Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) amendment #1840 to the "Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act" would implement two reforms to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) court. First, it would bolster the role of amici curiae - outside experts who present a perspective other than the government and assist the FISA Court in evaluating arguments presented by the Department of Justice - by creating a presumption that amici should participate in certain particularly sensitive or important matters and by increasing amici's access to information. Second, it would require the disclosure to the court of all material, exculpatory evidence, or impeachment evidence. The sponsor noted that the provision mirrors an amendment that the Senate passed by a vote of 77-19 in 2020. It is noteworthy that while the NSA and FBI are prohibited from "intentionally" targeting Americans through its mass surveillance under FISA, these agencies acquire a huge amount of innocent Americans' communications "incidentally." These agencies can then conduct backdoor, warrantless searches of these "incidentally collected" communications. Support is the Limited Government Position as countless Americans have had their Fourth Amendment rights infringed through warrantless spying under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). This amendment helps protect civil liberties by strengthening government transparency and accountability.

Strengthening Government Transparency Under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) through Increased Oversight of the Program by Outside Experts (Amici Curiae).

The Sen. Dick Durbin (R-IL) amendment #1841 to the "Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act" would require greater oversight of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). According to the sponsor "This modification I am suggesting, suggested by the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, would mean that the Agency would have to report for warrants 80 cases a month. That is not too much when we are dealing with hundreds of thousands of targets and millions of conversations." It is noteworthy that while the NSA and FBI are prohibited from "intentionally" targeting Americans through its mass surveillance under FISA, these agencies acquire a huge amount of innocent Americans' communications "incidentally." These agencies can then conduct backdoor, warrantless searches of these "incidentally collected" communications. Support is the Limited Government Position as countless Americans have had their Fourth Amendment rights infringed through warrantless spying under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). This amendment helps protect civil liberties by strengthening government transparency and accountability.

Strengthening Government Transparency Under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) by Requiring the Agency to Report for Warrants 80 Cases a Month.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #1828 to the "Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act" would prevent American information from being collected without a warrant. While Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) prohibits the NSA and FBI from "intentionally" targeting Americans through its mass surveillance, these agencies acquire a huge amount of innocent Americans' communications "incidentally." These agencies can then conduct backdoor, warrantless searches of these "incidentally collected" communications. According to the sponsor, the "amendment would simply say this: You can investigate all the foreigners you want under 702, under FISA, whatever you wish for foreigners, but for Americans you go to an article III court". Support is the Limited Government Position as countless Americans have had their Fourth Amendment rights infringed through warrantless spying under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). This amendment helps protect civil liberties by strengthening government transparency and accountability.

Protecting Civil Liberties Under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) by Prohibiting Surveillance on Americans without a Warrant.

The Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) amendment #1820 to the "Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act" would reverse a major expansion of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act that was included in the House-passed bill by striping a provision that "requires anyone who can access a server, cable box, wifi router, phone or laptop to assist in warrantless 702 surveillance". While Section 702 prohibits the NSA and FBI from "intentionally" targeting Americans through its mass surveillance, these agencies acquire a huge amount of innocent Americans' communications "incidentally." These agencies can then conduct backdoor, warrantless searches of these "incidentally collected" communications. The House-passed bill requires a whole new class of businesses and other entities to take part in FISA. For example, entities such as hotels, libraries, and coffee shops could now serve as surrogates for the spying if customers within the establishments are connected to the Wi-Fi equipment and engaged in international communications. Support is the Limited Government Position as countless Americans have had their Fourth Amendment rights infringed through warrantless spying under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). This amendment helps protect civil liberties by strengthening government transparency and accountability.

Protecting Civil Liberties by Removing a Provision within the FISA Bill that Expanded Warrantless Surveillance to Encompass a Greater Number of Americans and Business Entities.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #1829 to the "Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act" would insert the language of the House-passed "Fourth Amendment Is Not For Sale Act". This provision prohibits law enforcement and intelligence agencies from purchasing personal information about customers or subscribers of electronic and remote computing service providers - such as email, social media, cell phone and cloud computing companies - without first obtaining a court order. According to the House sponsor, the bill "stops the federal government from circumventing Americans' Fourth Amendment right to privacy by closing loopholes that allow the government to purchase Americans' data from big tech companies without a search warrant". Support is the Limited Government Position as the U.S. Constitution explicitly protects Americans from unreasonable searches and seizure. This amendment helps strengthen civil liberties as protected under the Fourth Amendment.

Strengthening Civil Liberties by Inserting the "Fourth Amendment Is Not For Sale Act" into the FISA Bill thus Preventing Government from Purchasing Americans' Data without a Search Warrant.

This bill introduced by Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID) would prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency from enforcing the rule titled "Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles" which was issued on April 18, 2024. This rule, which requires roughly 70% of new car and truck sales to be electric in less than 10 years, imposes much stricter emission standards for cars and light-duty trucks. Support is the Limited Government Position as this draconian EPA rule infringes consumer choice, drives up the cost of automobiles, and will result in the elimination of gas-powered performance vehicles. This bill is critical to combatting the actions of government bureaucrats to centrally plan the product sales of automotive manufactures in order to advance a radical and politicized environmental agenda.

Blocking a Biden Administration Mandate that Forces 70% of New Car Sales to be Electric by 2032.

This vote prevents consideration of the second article of impeachment against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for "Breach of Public Trust". According to the House sponsor of impeachment Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), "Mayorkas' policies have killed Americans, bankrupted communities, overrun schools, besieged towns, drowned hospitals, and incapacitated law enforcement while empowering cartels and foreign entities". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as Secretary Mayorkas has failed in his duties as Secretary of Homeland Security through the implementation of radical policies that have severely weakened our national security and devastated countless communities across the nation.

Blocking the Impeachment Trial of DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for Article II "Breach of Public Trust" for his Failure to Secure the Southern Border.

This vote prevents consideration of the first article of impeachment against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for "Willful and Systemic Refusal to Comply with the Law". According to the House sponsor of impeachment Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), "Mayorkas' policies have killed Americans, bankrupted communities, overrun schools, besieged towns, drowned hospitals, and incapacitated law enforcement while empowering cartels and foreign entities". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as Secretary Mayorkas has failed in his duties as Secretary of Homeland Security through the implementation of radical policies that have severely weakened our national security and devastated countless communities across the nation.

Blocking the Impeachment Trial of DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for Article I "Willful and Systemic Refusal to Comply with the Law" for his Failure to Secure the Southern Border.

This resolution introduced by Rep. John James (R-MI) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a Biden administration rule issued by the National Labor Relations Board on October 27, 2023, titled "Standard for Determining Joint Employer Status". The rule largely reestablished the broad Obama-era standard of "joint employment" whereby one company could be held legally liable for another businesses' employees even if they do not directly oversee them. This rule has a large impact on business and labor law, including collective bargaining, pay, scheduling and employer liability for unfair labor practices. Support is the Limited Government Position as the Biden administration rule inflicts significant harm on small businesses including higher compliance, legal and labor costs. This measure is critical to restoring a small-business friendly regulatory environment which boosts hiring and economic growth.

Utilizing the Congressional Review Act to Overturn Anti-Small Business Regulations Imposed by the Biden Administration Surrounding "Joint Employer Status".

This resolution introduced by Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a Biden administration rule issued by the Federal Highway Administration on December 7, 2023, titled "National Performance Management Measures; Assessing Performance of the National Highway System, Greenhouse Gas Emissions Measure". The rule imposes greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions performance measures on state departments of transportation and metropolitan planning organizations. According to the sponsor, "New York and North Dakota have very different transportation systems, needs, and capabilities, but under this one-size-fits all mandate, they're effectively treated the same. A subway stop at a cattle ranch is silly and unserious, and so is the idea of widespread EV use in North Dakota". Support is the Limited Government Position as it is not the role of the federal government to centrally plan the operations of local transportation entities. Such politicized mandates unnecessarily drive-up taxpayer costs and enrich companies providing energy efficiency services.

Utilizing the Congressional Review Act to Overturn Greenhouse Gas Emission Mandates on Local Transportation Entities Imposed by the Biden Administration.

The Sen. Ted Budd (R-NC) amendment #1740 to the "Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would prevent illegal immigrants who commit the crime of burglary, theft, or shoplifting from being granted legal status or citizenship. According to the sponsor, the amendment is "particularly relevant in the case of Laken Riley, where the illegal alien who murdered her had previously been arrested for those crimes". Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border and deport those residing in the country unlawfully not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

Strengthening Public Safety by Denying Legal Status to Any Illegal Immigrant Who Commits the Crime of Burglary, Theft, or Shoplifting.

The Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) amendment #1808 to the "Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would prohibit federal funds from being used to fly illegal immigrants from other nations into states across the country. According to the sponsor, "President Biden has been secretly flying hundreds of thousands of illegal aliens from foreign countries into blue city airports. Just last year alone, in 2023, it was reported that some 320,000 illegal aliens had been flown in using this method." Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border and deport those residing in the country unlawfully not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

Strengthening National Security by Preventing Federal Funds from Being Used to Fly Illegal Immigrants into the United States.

The Sen. Ted Budd (R-NC) amendment #1807 to the "Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would prevent illegal immigrants who commit the crime of assaulting a law enforcement officer from ever obtaining legal status or citizenship. According to the sponsor, anyone who beats up a cop and is here illegally should not be allowed to legally remain in the country. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border and deport those residing in the country unlawfully not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

Strengthening Public Safety by Denying Legal Status to Any Illegal Immigrant Who Commits the Crime of Assaulting a Law Enforcement Officer.

This motion tables (defeats) the Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI) amendment #1706 to the "Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024". The amendment prohibits Labor, HHS, and Education funding from being provided to sanctuary cities that do not comply with requests from DHS to provide advance notice of date and time illegal immigrants are scheduled to be released from local custody. According to the sponsor, "in the last 4 months, we have seen a string of horrific crimes in which the suspects are illegal immigrants" which include individuals stabbed to death, murdered by gunfire, and beaten to death - such as Laken Riley. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border and deport those residing in the country unlawfully not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

Providing Federal Funds to Sanctuary Cities Despite their Refusal to Comply with ICE Detainers for Illegal Immigrants.

The Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO) amendment #1795 to the "Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would bar federal funds from being used to label speech as disinformation and prevents the government from coercing online platforms into removing speech. According to the sponsor, the Federal Government and its leviathan of agencies should not be allowed to coerce and collude with social media companies to censor speech online. The amendment is in response to government entities such as the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and its infamous "Disinformation Governance Board". Support is the Limited Government Position as federal entities such as the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) have clearly exceeded their statutory duties and have worked to infringe free speech as protected under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This fiscally responsible measure helps ensure taxpayer funds are redirected to advancing core duties of government.

Combatting Government Censorship and Infringement of Free Speech Rights of Americans by Prohibiting Federal Funds for Labeling Speech as "Disinformation" or Coercing Online Platforms.

This motion tables (defeats) the Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) amendment #1804 to the "Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024". The amendment would prohibit the Biden administration from issuing waivers granting Iran access to escrowed accounts, including a $10 billion account related to Iraqi electricity. According to the sponsor, "The Biden administration has a pathological obsession with boosting the Iranian regime and undermining Israel" and the waivers have allowed Iran "to use that money to fund Hamas, Hezbollah, Iraqi militias, and other terrorist groups". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this motion weakens national security by providing a top adversary nation of the U.S. with billions of dollars of resources that can be used to inflict harm on Americans or our allies such as Israel.

Providing Iran with Access to Billions of Dollars of Funds by Providing Waivers to Sanctions.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) motion to the "Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would instruct the Senate Committee on Appropriations to cut 5 percent from the bill. Amounts made available to the Department of Defense or for securing the international border of the U.S. are exempted from reductions. According to the sponsor, "we are spending at such a rate that we add an average of a trillion dollars to the debt every 90 days. If that pace continues, instead of $1.5 trillion it could be up to $4 trillion in the next year". Support is the Limited Government Position as this motion is a step in the right direction to advancing a fiscally responsible budget. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Advancing Fiscal Responsibility through a 5% Cut to the Bloated $1.2 Trillion Spending Package.

The Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) amendment #1722 to the "Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would block funding for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection CBP One application, or any successor app, to facilitate the entry of any illegal immigrant into the United States. According to the sponsor, "If you are an illegal immigrant under the Biden administration, all you have to do is pull out the CBP One app" and that "between January and September of last year, 221,000 illegal aliens entered the United States this way, and they were allowed to fly around the country without having ID". The sponsor also noted "the danger presented by this is reflected in the fact that Haitian immigrant Cory Alvarez, whose entry into the United States was facilitated by the CBP One app, raped a 15- year-old, mentally impaired girl in the United States". Support is the Limited Government Position as the CBP One app presents a major threat to U.S. national security, and ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border and deport those residing in the country unlawfully not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

Strengthening National Security and Combatting Illegal Immigration by Blocking Funding for the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection CBP One App.

The "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" sponsored by Rep. John Carter (R-TX) is a $460 billion minibus funding several government agencies through Fiscal Year 2024. Overall spending levels are generally flat compared to the prior year with increases for some agencies and decreases for others. For example, the bill provides a 10% cut to the EPA, 7% cut to ATF, and a 6% cut to the FBI. However, the bill continues to fund the Essential Air Service program and contains countless earmarks which fund pet projects of lawmakers, especially at the Army Corps of Engineers where spending is increased 7-fold. The bill also provides increased spending for a number of welfare programs such as WIC, plus $3.3 billion for community development block grants. Furthermore, hundreds of millions is directed to fight climate change through carbon capture. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill maintains the unsustainable spending levels which were hiked during the COVID-19 pandemic and is chock-full of wasteful pet-projects of special interests. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country. Note: A Democratic lawmaker who opposed the bill was recorded as "X" due to the fact their opposition was not the spending but rather minor provisions pertaining to gun control.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through a Budget Bill Filled with Waste and Funding Earmarked for Pet Projects of Lawmakers.

The Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) amendment #1634 to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would require the U.S. Census to determine basic population statistics such as the number of citizens, noncitizens, and illegal immigrants that live in this country, and would require that only U.S. citizens be counted in determining the number of House seats and electoral votes that each State gets. According to the sponsor, "the more illegal aliens and noncitizens in your State or district, the greater your voting power in Congress and Presidential elections. This not only destroys the principle of one person-one vote by making some American's votes more powerful than others, but it encourages illegal immigration in sanctuary cities as a way to increase political power". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps strengthen democracy by ending a fraudulent political scheme weakens the integrity of elections and also manipulates federal fund disbursements.

Strengthening Democracy and Election Integrity by Requiring the Census to Account for Illegal Immigrants.

The Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) motion to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would instruct the Senate Committee on Appropriations to remove all Community Project Funding and Congressionally Directed Spending (commonly referred to as "earmarks) within the bill. The bill contains roughly 6,600 earmarks at a cost of $12 billion. According to the sponsor, "Earmarks are a corrupt practice" and "the American taxpayer should not be used as a political piggybank". Support is the Limited Government Position as earmarks fuel corruption within the political process and incentivize runaway and wasteful spending for lawmaker pet projects. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Restoring Fiscal Responsibility in the Appropriations Bill by Cutting the 6,600 Earmarks that Total $12 Billion in Runaway Spending for Lawmaker Pet Projects.

The Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO) amendment #1626 to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would cut $110 million in spending on administrative costs at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) pertaining to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. According to the sponsor, "this is a good government amendment" as only $226 million of the $337 million for BEAD administrative costs has been justified. The amendment also cuts funding for a new initiative related to "Algorithmic Justice" which is undefined. Under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, $42.45 billion was provided to the BEAD Program for high-speed internet access expansion, providing significant subsidies to companies such as Comcast. Support is the Limited Government Position as the BEAD program should be eliminated in its entirety. The private sector and free market are best equipped to determine where broadband is most needed and which expansion projects are most economically viable. The BEAD program forces taxpayers to enrich woke corporations such as Comcast for infrastructure which is unnecessary due to significant advances in satellite technology from Comcast's competitors, such as Elon Musk's Starlink.

Cutting $110 Million from a Wasteful Program that Enriches Woke Companies Such as Comcast for Broadband Expansion that is No Longer Necessary Due to Musk's Starlink.

The Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) amendment #1623 to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would prohibit the use of funds to initiate or decline a Federal criminal charge based on impermissible considerations defined in the Justice Manual. According to the sponsor, the Justice Manual has been violated as "the Justice Department has been weaponized against the 45th President, President Biden's lead political opponent". Support is the Limited Government Position as tragically our justice system has been warped by politics at both the federal and local levels. This amendment and other measures are essential to reforming the "Department of Injustice" and restoring the faith of Americans of a fair and unbiased judicial system.

Combatting the Weaponization of the Criminal Justice System Against Trump and Others by Defunding Federal Criminal Charges that Fail to Comply with the Justice Manual.

The "Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act" (RECA) sponsored by Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) would extend RECA for an additional six years past its current sunset date of June 7, 2024. RECA was enacted in 1990 under George H.W. Bush to compensate individuals exposed to fallout from nuclear weapons testing between 1947 and 1961. The bill also includes provisions which increase payouts and eligibility, as well as expand the regions covered to include the bill sponsor's district in St. Louis, Missouri. The bill does not contain any funding for the new entitlement, which is estimated to cost at a minimum of between $50 to $100 billion over the next ten years for the St. Louis region alone. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as expansion and creation of a new entitlement program that lacks critical safeguards and limits on eligibility will result in a fiscal catastrophe. Federal taxpayers have already experienced a similar fiscal nightmare and skyrocketing costs resulting from the poorly crafted World Trade Center Health Program, which requires constant additional taxpayer cash infusions. Unfortunately, greedy plaintiffs' attorneys seek out any individual who may be remotely impacted by an event and work to extract enormous payouts at the expense of taxpayers.

Threatening a Fiscal Nightmare through the Extension and Expansion of the Entitlement Program "Radiation Exposure Compensation Act" (RECA).

The "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024" sponsored by Rep. Kay Granger (R-TX) would avert a partial government shutdown by extending government funding by a week (March 8) for six agencies and March 22 for others. The extension serves as a stopgap as the final details on a broader extension are finalized. According to bill opponents, the broader bill will not provide any substantial spending reductions at a time the nation is facing $1 trillion in annual interest payment on the debt. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure merely kicks the can down the road to advance a fiscally irresponsible budget. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Advancing a Fiscally Irresponsible Budget by Kicking the Can Down the Road through the "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024".

The Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) motion to the "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024" would instruct the Senate Committee on Appropriations to insert the text of H.R. 2 (the Secure the Border Act of 2023), as passed by the House of Representatives on May 11, 2023. According to the sponsor, "H.R. 2 contains a comprehensive plan to secure the border, to stop catch-and- release, to build the wall, to stop visa overstays, and to reform abuse of immigration, parole, and asylum laws". Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border and deport those residing in the country unlawfully not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

Combatting Illegal Immigration by Inserting the "Secure the Border Act" into the "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024".

The Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) motion to the "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024" would instruct the Senate Committee on Appropriations to adjust the bill into a full-year CR funding government through September 30, 2024. According to the sponsor, this adjustment would save taxpayers $130 billion and place regular nondefense at a level $40 billion less than in fiscal year 2023. Support is the Limited Government Position as this motion increases fiscal responsibility. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting Government Spending by $130 Billion by Extending the Duration of the CR through September of 2024.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #1614 to the "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024" would prevent the Federal Reserve from purchasing the debt of states or municipalities through its Open Market Operations. According to the sponsor, "we now know that the Federal Reserve is not only buying the Federal debt; they are buying the debt of profligate, large-spending States like California, New York, and Illinois. It was never intended that Congress give the Fed the power, and we should make sure that it is explicit that the Federal Reserve cannot buy the debt of individual States." This action by the Federal Reserve generally lowers the borrowing costs for the states and localities the Fed purchases the debt. Support is the Limited Government Position as the reckless actions by the Federal Reserve to purchase state and local bonds places the entire U.S. financial system - including the U.S. dollar - at risk in the event of widespread defaults. The continued monetization of debt coupled with the enormous balance sheet of the Fed, merely heightens the risk of a hyper-inflationary event.

Ending a Reckless Federal Reserve Policy Jeopardizing the Stability of the U.S. Monetary System through the Purchase of State and Municipal Debt.

The "Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024" would avoid a shutdown by extending government funding through either March 1 or March 8, 2024 depending upon agency. Notably, the bill does not contain border security provisions advocated by conservatives. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill maintains fiscal irresponsibility by kicking the can down the road, while also failing to include the critical border security provision. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Maintaining Fiscal Irresponsibility through the "Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024" that Fails to Include a Critical Border Security Provision.

The Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) motion to the "Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024" would instruct the Senate Committee on Appropriations to adjust the bill into a full-year CR funding government through September 30, 2024. According to the sponsor, this adjustment would "result in a spending cut of $73 billion, bringing our total discretionary spending down to 1.56 trillion, a significant cut from the $1.66 trillion funding deal that is in the works currently". Support is the Limited Government Position as this motion increases fiscal responsibility. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting Government Spending by $73 Billion by Extending the Duration of the CR through September of 2024.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #1384 to the "Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024" would effectively end all humanitarian aid provide to Gaza. Under the amendment, aid would be terminated unless the Palestinian Authority and other Palestinian governing entities in the West Bank recognize Israel's right to exist, release all hostages taken during the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on Israel and renounce terrorism. Additionally, the amendment would also force the State Department to report on compliance with U.S. foreign assistance laws. Support is the Limited Government Position as other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of nearly $2 trillion. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Placing America First by Ending the Foreign Aid Provided to the Gaza Strip.

This resolution introduced by Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a rule issued by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau titled "Small Business Lending under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (Regulation B)". This rule implements a section of the Dodd-Frank Act and requires banks to collect and report data on race, ethnicity, and sex across 81 fields. The sponsor noted this rule imposes a significant additional cost on lenders and creates privacy concerns for small businesses that do not want such information made public. Support is the Limited Government Position as this Biden Administration rule further worsens the draconian regulatory framework of Dodd-Frank, while unnecessarily driving up lending costs and infringing privacy rights.

Combatting Regulatory Overreach by Nullifying Biden Administration Rules Forcing Banks to Report and Publish Additional Data Pertaining to Race, Ethnicity, and Sex.

The "National Defense Authorization Act" (NDAA) as passed on December 11, 2024, spans 1,800 pages and contains $895.2 billion in spending (a $9 billion increase over FY24 and $120 billion increase since FY20). It should be noted that at this time the Pentagon failed its seventh consecutive audit. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers can't continue to pour hundreds of billions of dollars into a broken pitcher. Major reforms must be made within the department of defense to cut waste, fraud and abuse and ensure our armed forces have the resources they need to protect our nation. Note: this custom vote only records Republican positions on the bill on the grounds of spending. Another custom vote records Democrat positions on the basis of DEI and transgender issues.

Passing a Fiscally Irresponsible National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which Hikes Spending by $9 Billion Despite the Pentagon Recently Failing its Audit.

This motion waives (defeats) Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) Point of Order to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024". The Point of Order removes the extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) from the bill. This section of FISA has been utilized to conduct surveillance on Americans without a warrant, including President Trump's previous campaign for president. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this motion helps strengthen civil liberties. The reauthorization of this FISA section violates the protections provided to Americans against unreasonable searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Weakening Civil Liberties by Maintaining the FISA Provision within the NDAA, which has Allowed the Warrantless Surveillance of the Trump Campaign and Thousands of Other Americans.

This bill, the "Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024 and Other Extensions Act" serves as a short-term "CR" that funds government for another 45 days, delaying an otherwise imminent government shutdown to right before the holidays. While this CR contains no funding for Ukraine, it does provide $16 billion in additional federal disaster funds - $10 billion more than previously negotiated - and the full amount sought by President Biden. The CR follows previous funding proposals by Republicans, which contained conservative policy items like border security and spending cuts. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this "kick the can down the road" approach weakens the ability of conservatives to obtain meaningful spending cuts. The measure shifts negotiations to right before the holidays when history has shown (as recently as the previous year) lawmakers refuse to make any spending cuts or shutdown government. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Harming the Ability to Negotiate a Fiscally-Responsible Budget by Passaging a CR that Delays a Government Shutdown to Right Before the Holidays.

This bill, a stopgap spending bill known as a "Continuing Resolution" funds government for another 45 days, delaying an otherwise imminent government shutdown to right before the holidays. This CR also contains $6.15 billion in additional funding for Ukraine and $6 billion in federal disaster relief funding. The CR follows previous funding proposals by Republicans, which contained conservative policy items like border security and spending cuts. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this "kick the can down the road" approach weakens the ability of conservatives to obtain meaningful spending cuts. The measure shifts negotiations to right before the holidays when history has (as recently as the previous year) lawmakers refuse to make any spending cuts or shutdown government. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending by Providing $6 Billion in Additional Funding to Ukraine and Passing a Short-Term CR that Weakens the Chance of Passing a Responsible Budget.

This bill, "making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024", is a "CR" that funds portions of government through January 19, 2024 or February 2, 2024, depending on the department. The CR does not contain provisions demanded by conservative lawmakers, such as spending cuts or border security measures. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this "kick the can down the road" approach weakens the ability of conservatives to obtain meaningful spending cuts. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Continuing Out-of-Control Spending through a CR Without Any Fiscal Restraints or Border Security Measures

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #1366 to the continuing resolution would reduce funding by 15 percent (except for the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs) and rescind $30 billion for the enforcement funds provided to the IRS as part of President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment serves as a step in the right direction to restoring fiscal sanity in Congress. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Advancing Fiscal Responsibility through a 15% Cut in Spending within the Short-Term CR Government Funding Bill.

This "Minibus" appropriations package provides a year of funding for certain government agencies and functions including veterans affairs, agriculture, transportation, housing and military construction . The package includes several "historic" spending hikes in a range of areas including military construction and government welfare programs surrounding housing. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill represents yet another example of fiscal insanity. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through a Minibus Appropriations Package with "Historic" Levels of New Welfare Spending and Enormous Agency Budgets.

The Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) amendment #1121 to the Minibus Appropriations Package adds the "Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny" (REINS) Act to the package. The REINS Act would require Congress to affirmatively approve every new major rule proposed by the executive branch before it is permitted to become effective. The sponsor noted that in 2022 the Biden Administration imposed an additional $117.1 billion in additional regulatory costs onto the U.S. economy. Support is the Limited Government Position as the REINS Act places a critical check on unaccountable executive branch bureaucrats who have enormous powers to control the daily lives of Americans.

Placing a Critical Check on the Regulatory Power of Unelected Bureaucrats through the REINS Act.

The Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) amendment #1249 to the Minibus Appropriations Package enforces a provision of a treaty made between the United States and Mexico in 1944. Specifically, the amendment requires water negotiators to press Mexico to meet the 350,000 acre-feet of water the country committed to provide American farmers in the Rio Grande Valley. Support is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers should ensure any treaty commitments by foreign nations to the U.S. are enforced and upheld. Failure to do so not only weakens the standing of the United States abroad, but, in this case, harms American farmers, as they face a severe drought.

Margaret Hassan

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